Saturday marks the final game of the 100th season for Tiger Stadium. Before the season began, there were hopes the regular season finale between LSU and Oklahoma would have playoff implications.
Instead, these two teams are just trying to finish on a high note and pick up a little momentum heading into National Signing Day next week.
Here are three things to look for as the Tigers and Sooners meet for the first time in the regular season.
1. Not another running back
It seems like every week, LSU faces a running back. Too bad the Tigers defense couldn’t go up against Garrett Nussmeier, who doesn’t run.
Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold rushed the ball 25 times for 131 yards last week against Alabama.
He has to run the ball a good bit, because OU’s wide receiver room has been decimated by injuries. But he’s also good at running the ball and LSU struggles against defending the run. We could see Arnold run it about 20 times on what’s expected to be a chilly night in Tiger Stadium.
2. Turnovers
Oklahoma is 6-and-5 and in all five losses they lost the turnover battle. Quarterback Jackson Arnold has lost six fumbles. Running backs Michael Hawkins and Taylor Tatum have combined to lose five fumbles. Coach Brian Kelly said Oklahoma’s turnover troubles have become less of an issue since replacing their offensive coordinator.
3. LSU’s offense versus Oklahoma’s defense
Oklahoma ranks 5th in the SEC in total defense, they are third in the SEC in sacks with 33 and they’ve forced 20 turnovers, also tied for third in the SEC.
The Sooners are very stingy against the run, allowing less than 3 yards a carry.
Oklahoma is susceptible against the pass. The Sooners’ cornerbacks have struggled, so if Nussmeier has time the Tigers should have success in the passing game.
Even in last week’s dominating win over Alabama, Crimson Tide quarterback had three completions of 25 yards or more.
I like LSU to win this game 31-20.